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definite
/ˈdɛfɪnɪt/
clearly established
We have a definite plan for the weekend.
The plan is clearly established and not uncertain.
general
Clearly stated or decided; not vague or doubtful.
There is no definite answer to this question yet.
The answer is not clearly established or known.
She has definite plans to travel next month.
Her travel plans are clearly decided and not tentative.
Used to emphasize certainty. Often follows 'the' or 'a'.
technical
Clearly defined or determined; precise.
A definite integral has fixed limits of integration.
The integral is calculated between two specific, unchanging limits.
In mathematics, contrasts with 'indefinite' (which has variable limits).
informal
Likely to happen; certain.
It's definite that she'll win the competition.
It is certain that she will win.
Common in casual speech to express high probability.
Collocations
definite articlethe (in grammar)definite answerclear and certain responsedefinite planestablished schedule or arrangement
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid confusion with 'definitely'
'Definite' is an adjective (describing a noun), while 'definitely' is an adverb (modifying verbs or adjectives). Compare: 'a definite plan' (adjective) vs. 'She will definitely go' (adverb).
Gold Rule
Position in sentences
As an adjective, 'definite' typically comes before a noun (e.g., 'definite proof') or after linking verbs like 'be' (e.g., 'The winner is definite').
Word Origin
From Latin *definitus*, past participle of *definire* 'to limit, define,' from *de-* 'completely' + *finire* 'to end.'
Usage Notes
Often used with 'the' or 'a' to specify a particular instance (e.g., 'the definite article'). Can precede nouns directly (e.g., 'definite plans'). In informal contexts, may imply high probability rather than absolute certainty.
Word Breakdown
de-
completely
prefix-fin-
end/limit
root-ite
adjective suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary